What structure is used to temporarily store stormwater runoff?

What structure is used to temporarily store stormwater runoff?

• A. Detention basin
• B. Retention basin
• C. Infiltration trench
• D. Sedimentation basin

Answer: (A)

Temporary storage of stormwater runoff is about capturing water during a rain event and holding it for a short period before releasing it at a controlled rate. This slows down downstream flows and allows solids to settle a bit, reducing the impact of a storm on streams and infrastructure. Detention basins are designed for this purpose: they pool runoff after a rain and then drain later at a controlled rate, so the peak flow is lowered and timing is spread out. Retention basins, on the other hand, keep a permanent pool of water and aren’t meant just for short-term storage. An infiltration trench is intended to let water soak into the ground rather than store it temporarily for release, and a sedimentation basin focuses on settling out sediments rather than providing timed storage.

Temporary storage of stormwater runoff is about capturing water during a rain event and holding it for a short period before releasing it at a controlled rate. This slows down downstream flows and allows solids to settle a bit, reducing the impact of a storm on streams and infrastructure.

Detention basins are designed for this purpose: they pool runoff after a rain and then drain later at a controlled rate, so the peak flow is lowered and timing is spread out. Retention basins, on the other hand, keep a permanent pool of water and aren’t meant just for short-term storage. An infiltration trench is intended to let water soak into the ground rather than store it temporarily for release, and a sedimentation basin focuses on settling out sediments rather than providing timed storage.